8 min read

How International Shipping Works in Nigeria

A capture of an airport

Written by

Helen Adesewa

Published on

29 Jan 2026

International shipping plays a major role in today’s Nigerian economy, supporting businesses that sell globally and individuals sending parcels to friends, family, or customers abroad. Whether you’re exporting products or sending a one‑off package, understanding how overseas shipping works from Nigeria can save you time, money, and stress.

This guide explains the international shipping process in Nigeria, what to expect at each stage, and how to choose a reliable courier for smooth worldwide delivery.

 

Understanding International Shipping in Nigeria

International shipping simply means moving goods from Nigeria to another country using air, sea, or land freight. In practice, air freight is the most common option in Nigeria, especially for parcels that require speed, tracking, and doorstep delivery.

Major logistics hubs like Lagos and Abuja handle most outbound international shipments due to their access to international airports, customs offices, and courier networks.

 

The International Shipping Process in Nigeria (Step‑by‑Step)

1. Package Preparation

Before sending goods abroad, items must be securely packaged and clearly labeled. Packaging standards depend on the type of item and the destination country, so professional guidance helps prevent damage or rejection during transit.

2. Documentation & Customs Clearance

Accurate paperwork is essential when shipping goods internationally from Nigeria. Common documents include:

  • Commercial invoice
  • Packing list
  • Export permits (for restricted or regulated items)

Customs clearance is often the most sensitive stage. Experienced courier companies like DLE typically manage this process to reduce delays and ensure compliance with Nigerian export regulations.

3. Carrier Selection

Choosing a reputable international courier makes a big difference. A trusted provider helps you select the best shipping method based on urgency, destination, and budget  while also offering shipment visibility and customer support.

4. Transportation & Tracking

Once customs clearance is completed, your parcel is transported to the destination country. Most global courier services provide real‑time tracking, allowing senders to monitor progress from dispatch to delivery.

5. Final Delivery

After clearing customs in the destination country, the package is delivered directly to the recipient’s address whether it’s heading to North America, Europe, or elsewhere.

 

Common International Shipping Routes from Nigeria

Nigerians frequently send parcels to major global markets, including:

  • Nigeria to the United States
  • Nigeria to the United Kingdom
  • Nigeria to Canada
  • European and Asian destinations
  • Worldwide shipping for businesses serving international customers

Inbound shipping such as receiving goods into Nigeria from the USA or UK  is also increasingly popular, particularly for e‑commerce and personal purchases.

 

Shipping from Lagos and Abuja

Most international courier services operate from Nigeria’s major cities:

  • Lagos remains the primary shipping hub due to its advanced logistics infrastructure and international airport access.
  • Abuja offers fast and convenient air freight options, especially for customers in Northern Nigeria.

Using a courier with strong operations in either city often results in faster processing and smoother export handling.

Why Choosing the Right Courier Matters

Your shipping experience depends largely on the courier you select. A dependable international delivery company typically offers:

  • Reliable pickup and doorstep delivery
  • Competitive and transparent pricing
  • Strong customs knowledge
  • Secure handling of parcels
  • Consistent delivery timelines

Working with a professional courier helps minimize delays, avoid documentation errors, and gives peace of mind throughout the shipping journey.

 

Making International Shipping from Nigeria Simple

Whether you’re a business owner expanding into global markets or an individual sending a parcel overseas, international shipping doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right logistics partner, the process becomes clear, efficient, and stress‑free.

At Deluxe Link Express, we manage the entire shipping process from pickup and documentation to customs clearance and final delivery, we help customers ship seamlessly to the USA, UK, Canada, and beyond.

 

Ready to Ship Internationally?

Choose a trusted international courier in Nigeria and enjoy fast, secure, and reliable worldwide delivery with doorstep service. When you work with professionals, sending parcels abroad becomes less about paperwork and more about peace of mind.

 

Weekly newsletter

No spam. Just the latest releases and tips, interesting articles, and exclusive interviews in your inbox every week.

Read about our privacy policy.

News from Our Blog

Blog Preview
Design

How do you create compelling presentations that wow your colleagues and impress your managers?

Olivia Ryne

20 Jan 2024

Blog Preview
Design

How do you create compelling presentations that wow your colleagues and impress your managers?

Olivia Ryne

20 Jan 2024

Blog Preview
Design

How do you create compelling presentations that wow your colleagues and impress your managers?

Olivia Ryne

20 Jan 2024